Plaid requests clarification from UK Government Health Minister on PPE restrictions for dentists in Wales

Plaid Cymru MS and Shadow Minister for Health, Rhun ap Iorwerth, has written a letter to Matt Hancock asking for “urgent clarification” and warns of negative health implications for Welsh public if dentists are unable to source PPE

It follows claims that a supplier in England had been told not to sell some equipment to dentists in Wales.

In the letter, he writes that he is “expressing concern” following the claim, and refers to the implications a lack of PPE would have on plans to reopen dentists in Wales from July. He also notes that various other Welsh dentists have made similar concerns heard.

He also referred to similar claims earlier in the pandemic, where care homes where having problems accessing PPE through their usual suppliers due to a similar issue of ‘England only’ stock.

Plaid Cymru MS and Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, Rhun ap Iorwerth, said,

“PPE is vital for the delivery of dental care, and that any delays due to lack of PPE can lead to far reaching and negative impacts on dental health. We need urgent clarification about any restrictions that have been put in place for English-based wholesalers and their ability to sell to other UK nations.